Parts

When your vehicle is involved in a collision, choosing the right replacement parts is an important part of the repair process. While many replacement parts may look similar, differences in their design, materials, fit, and manufacturing standards can affect how they perform.

At Bailey’s Auto Body in Fargo, North Dakota, we prioritize vehicle safety, quality workmanship, and following applicable Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) repair procedures. We recommend genuine OEM replacement parts whenever possible and appropriate to help restore your vehicle’s original fit, function, and safety-related performance.

Understanding the different types of replacement parts can help you make informed decisions about your collision repair and better understand the parts listed on your insurance estimate.

Understanding Automotive Replacement Parts

Not all replacement parts are manufactured the same way. Depending on your vehicle, the damage sustained, parts availability, and insurance coverage, several different types of components may be considered during the repair process.

Understanding these differences can help you evaluate your repair options.

Why We Recommend Genuine OEM Parts

Modern vehicles are engineered with numerous structural, mechanical, electronic, and safety-related systems that work together during normal operation and in a collision.

Genuine OEM replacement parts are designed to meet the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications for their intended application. Using the appropriate components can help support proper fitment, functionality, and compatibility with surrounding vehicle systems.

Potential advantages of OEM parts include:

• Manufacturer Specifications: Designed to meet the vehicle manufacturer’s requirements for the intended application.
• Proper Fit & Alignment: Engineered for the vehicle’s original dimensions and mounting locations.
• Safety-System Compatibility: Designed to work with the vehicle’s original structural and safety-related systems.
• Consistent Materials & Construction: Manufactured according to the specifications established for the original component.
• Appearance & Finish: Intended to maintain the vehicle’s original appearance and panel fit.
• Manufacturer Repair Procedures: Helps support repairs performed according to applicable OEM requirements.

At Bailey’s Auto Body, we believe selecting appropriate replacement parts is an important part of restoring a vehicle’s condition after a collision.

What About Aftermarket Replacement Parts?

Aftermarket replacement parts are widely available throughout the automotive repair industry. Some are designed as alternatives to original factory components and may be offered at a lower price.

However, aftermarket parts can vary in their materials, construction, fitment, and quality. Some may perform comparably to the original component, while others may require additional adjustments or may not be appropriate for certain repairs.

It is also important to understand that aftermarket replacement parts are not necessarily developed or tested by the vehicle manufacturer using the same procedures as the original factory components.

For these reasons, Bailey’s evaluates replacement part options based on the vehicle, the damaged component, applicable manufacturer procedures, and the requirements of the repair.

Our priority is to recommend parts and repair methods that support safe, proper, and reliable collision repairs.

How Replacement Parts Can Affect Vehicle Safety

Vehicle safety depends on more than airbags and seat belts. Many structural components and exterior assemblies are designed to manage crash forces, protect occupants, and support the operation of advanced safety technology.

Depending on the vehicle, these components may include:

• Bumper Reinforcements & Energy Absorbers
• Structural Body Panels & Reinforcements
• Hoods, Fenders & Other Exterior Panels
• Sensor Mounting Brackets
• Radar & Camera Mounting Components
• Other Safety-Related Replacement Parts

Differences in the design, dimensions, materials, or installation of certain replacement components can affect how surrounding systems function.

This is especially important on vehicles equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which may depend on precise sensor placement and component alignment.

Following applicable OEM repair procedures helps technicians determine which parts, inspections, and calibrations are required for a particular repair.

OEM Parts, Aftermarket Parts & Insurance Claims

When a vehicle is repaired through an insurance claim, the insurance company may specify certain replacement parts in its estimate.

Depending on the policy, vehicle age, availability, and other factors, an estimate may include OEM, aftermarket, recycled, or remanufactured components.

However, the parts listed on an initial insurance estimate are not always the final parts used during the repair.

During disassembly and repair planning, additional damage or manufacturer requirements may be identified. When appropriate, our team documents those findings and communicates with the insurance company regarding necessary repair operations and replacement components.

Bailey’s works with all insurance companies and helps customers understand the parts and repair procedures included in their estimates.

Understanding Your Rights During Collision Repair

When choosing a collision repair facility, it is important to understand that you have the right to select the repair shop you trust.

Insurance companies may recommend repair facilities, but you are not generally required to use a particular shop simply because it is recommended by your insurer.

You can also ask questions about the replacement parts listed on your estimate, including whether they are OEM, aftermarket, recycled, or remanufactured.

Your insurance policy and applicable state requirements may affect which parts are covered and whether additional costs apply when requesting a different replacement part.

At Bailey’s Auto Body, we believe customers should understand their repair options and the reasoning behind our recommendations.

What Are Counterfeit Automotive Parts?

Counterfeit automotive parts are products that imitate genuine manufacturer components or use unauthorized branding to misrepresent their origin.

Unlike legitimate aftermarket parts, counterfeit products may be falsely advertised as genuine OEM components.

Because their manufacturing standards, materials, and quality control may be unknown, counterfeit parts can create safety and reliability concerns.

Using reputable suppliers and verifying replacement components helps reduce the risk of counterfeit parts entering the repair process.

Our Approach to Collision Repair Parts

At Bailey’s Auto Body, we approach every collision repair with the understanding that each vehicle and damage situation is different.

Our team evaluates damaged components, researches applicable OEM repair procedures, and identifies the replacement parts and repair operations necessary to complete the work.

We prioritize genuine OEM replacement parts whenever possible and appropriate while considering manufacturer requirements, parts availability, insurance coverage, and the specific needs of the repair.

When additional repairs or replacement components are necessary, we work to communicate those requirements clearly to customers and insurance companies.

Our goal is to provide quality repairs that address both the visible damage and the safety-related requirements of the vehicle.

Learn More About Our Collision Repair Process →

Questions About the Parts on Your Repair Estimate?

If you have questions about OEM parts, aftermarket parts, insurance estimates, or the replacement components recommended for your vehicle, our team is happy to help.

Bailey’s Auto Body proudly serves Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo, and the surrounding communities with professional collision repair services.

Contact Bailey’s Auto Body for a Free Estimate →